Celebrate Dragon Chinese New year with Jiuzhaiguo Bai Ma people
Tour Background
Entering the Life of the Oldest Tribe in East Asia – The White Horse Tibetan Peoples
The history of the Bai Tibetan folks, with a population of about 20,000 and also known as the Bai Ma people or Bai Ma ethnic group, is truly fascinating. They speak the Bai Ma language and follow natural worship, Bon religion, and Buddhism. This intriguing group was first mentioned in the Records of the Grand Historian: Biographies of the Southwest Barbarians, Volume 56, during the Western Han Dynasty. The text reads: “To the northeast of Ziran, what is the number of the ruler’s chief? The white horse is the largest.” It’s all part of the same amazing story.
The Ba Ma people, who follow the primitive Bon religion of the Tibetan people, believe in nature as a deity. Due to their lack of a fixed residence, they have always been known as “Tibetan soldiers”, embodying bravery and skill in battle—an integral part of their national identity encoded in their DNA.
Program
Day 1 Chengdu – Jiuzhaigou
Hotel Stay: Banyan Tree
Upon arrival in the morning, drive to Jiuzhaigou and check in at Banyan Tree. Take the opportunity to relax and enjoy the hotel and the surrounding forest. Use this time to rest and prepare for the tour the following day.
Day 2 –Baima Intangible Cultural Heritage Exploration Day – Joyful New Year’s Eve
Hotel Stay: Banyan Tree
Embark on a stunning morning at the heart of panda territory and the intriguing buffer zone where the footprints of wild giant pandas coexist with the Ba Ma people. This is where the rich cultural tapestry of Jiuzhaigou Valley begins.
Immerse yourself in the unique “Jumping CAOGAI” welcoming ceremony upon arrival, a tradition exclusive to this vibrant community.
Join the Baima villagers to delve into the national-level intangible cultural heritage of the Baima culture through captivating demonstrations of “zou dance” and “panda dance.”
Participate in crafting delicious “potato cakes” alongside local villagers, followed by a memorable “rural banquet” and a visit to the village’s esteemed old artists.
Uncover the art of wooden carving and don a ZOU dance mask in an immersive experience sure to resonate deeply with your senses.
After a full day of exploration, return to the hotel, cherishing the rich tapestry of experiences and memories created throughout the day.
Day 3 – Day tour of Jiuzhaigou / or Baima Mt Light Hiking
Hotel Stay: Qianhe / Howard Johnson same level
Jiuzhaigou Valley is a treasure trove of natural wonders, with a rich abundance of geographical resources waiting to be explored.
Behind the veil of its popularized image lies a hidden secret—the valley has served as the ancestral home of giant pandas for centuries. It is not just a tourist destination, but also a sanctuary for the indigenous people and the cherished pandas.
Join us as we venture into this untouched paradise, embarking on an exclusive hiking journey that will lead us to a world yet to be discovered. As we traverse this uncharted territory, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that call this place home, including pheasants, rock sheep, and wild boars.
Deep within the unspoiled landscapes and the murmurs of the Baima’s elders, lies the potential of a truly magical encounter—the elusive giant pandas. For those with hearts full of hope and fortune, this hidden gem holds the promise of a captivating rendezvous with these iconic creatures.
Go back to the Hotel after the tour.
Day 4 – Home Visit of the Horse Team Leader – Gami Temple Prayer
Hotel Stay: Songpan Taiyang River or same level
Start the day off with a visit to the village behind Jiuzhai, where you’ll have the unique opportunity to meet an old “horse team leader” after breakfast.
Embrace the local culture by riding horses through picturesque villages, where you can even rent traditional Tibetan clothes to wear during the ride (contact customer service in advance). Enjoy a special lunch in a Tibetan home, allowing for an immersive cultural experience.
On the return journey, make a stop at the Gami Temple, where lamas will specially arrange to light lanterns and bless the group. This is a unique chance to witness the mystical process of lamas praying and lighting lamps, while also receiving heartfelt blessings for the journey.
As the day comes to an end, head back to the hotel, filled with memorable experiences and cultural insights.
D5 – Songpan – Chengdu
After breakfast, take ride to Chengdu, ending the journey.
this tour could be arrange for individuals or small group ( Max 16 peoples) , If you are interested or want to inquire for this tour or anopther one, dont hesitate to contact us
